On Sunday at noon we sprinted to the Cathedral, 45 minutes with 200 steps at the finish. And then had what breath was left taken from us.
The facade of the front part of the Cathedral looks older than it is. It was completed in the 1920’s but was designed to match the older Gothic section.
The huge interior is flooded with light.
Stained glass windows fill the walls. Alfons Mucha’s magnificent design pays tribute to the birth of the Czech nation and the life of Wenceslas.
This small plaque gives credit to the bank that paid for the window.
The Cathedral is the national church of the Czech Republic. It’s here that kings were crowned and buried, and that relics and the crown jewels are kept.
Royal Crypt
A most elaborate tomb, below. The Queen of Bohemia, Maria Theresa, was an ardent defender of the Roman Catholic faith and a fan of St. John of Nepomuk. During her reign (mid 18th C.) his tomb was enhanced with marble statues and a whole lot of gold and silver.
The Wenceslas Chapel, containing the tomb of St. Wenceslas, patron saint of the Czech nation.
A detail of the King’s private box, connected by a corridor to his apartments in the castle.
From here, we wondered a bit through the castle courtyards and took in the views.
With two full weeks in Prague, we’ve been able to settle in. I’ve had time to do some preparation for my workshops in Australia and Jay has patiently worked through details for the next leg of our travels.
Tonight we are going to a uniquely Czech production at the National Theater. “Laterna Magika” (“black light” theater) combines live performance and film projections, with illumination against a black backdrop. It’s kind of hard to describe.
Returning to Prague after 10 years, my first impression was that it had been overrun by tourists and chain stores. Jay assured me that we would find the real Prague, and that by the end of our time here, I would not want to leave. He was right. The heart of Prague is unchanged by time, and by all it’s been through. That sense of history and of persistence against all odds is what I loved about this place. Like the people I love most, Prague is a survivor.
Journey with Phyllis and Jay 
I cannot say enough times how much I am enjoying this blog. It is filled with light, love and joy and is so informative!!! You are brilliant Phyllis, but we knew that! I so wish I could comment on each photo and hope that you will indulge me when you return to the Motherland. We will do it in sessions of course. I have two questions though, would you mind if I tweeted a link to your blog or if I posted the link on FB?
Also, is there a link to your itinerary? Is it all mapped out or are you mapping as you go? This is more than 2 questions but I was never good with numbers. Love and kisses N
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And I cannot say enough times how happy it makes me to know that you are reading it, and enjoying it. I eagerly look forward to spending many contented hours hearing your comments on my pictures, and of course, feel free to share, tweet, post anything you like if you think people would be interested.
Our itinerary was mostly set before we left – Jay has made a few tweaks. I’ll send it to you.
much love
Phyllis
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